Definition
This chengyu (four-character idiom) describes the act of seeking fame or reputation by dishonest or insincere means, such as pretending to be virtuous or undertaking showy actions for public approval. It carries a negative connotation and is often used to criticize someone whose good deeds are motivated by self-promotion rather than genuine intent.
f.e.
to seek fame and praise through dishonest or pretentious means
Examples
- 沽名钓誉。Tā nà zhǒng zuòfǎ wánquán shì gū míng diào yù.His approach is entirely fishing for fame.
- 沽名钓誉。Bié wèile gū míng diào yù ér zuòchū bù chéngshí de shì.Don't do dishonest things just to seek fame.
- 沽名钓誉，。Tā cānjiā císhàn huódòng shì wèile gū míng diào yù, ér bú shì zhēnxīn bāngzhù biérén.He participates in charity events to fish for fame, not to genuinely help others.
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